21 hours Ago By Maureen Okpe For SurgeZirc SA
A group of over 70 pensioners from Umkomaas have been left devastated after falling victim to a scam by a travel agency that promised them a getaway to the Drakensberg.The pensioners, who had paid R1,950 each for the trip, are now seeking justice after their much-anticipated holiday was never booked, and their refunds were never processed.YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:Bail Hearing For 11 Defendants In Multi-Million-Rand SASSA Fraud CaseMoneyThe case has prompted investigation by Reaction Unit South Africa (Rusa), with affected families looking for answers.
Travel Agency Scams Pensioners Of ThousandsIn December 2024, part of a senior citizens group, had eagerly anticipated a trip to a Drakensberg resort.The planned five-day journey, set to run from December 17 to 21, was initially delayed due to bad weather conditions.YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Watch| Nandi Nyembe’s Heartbreaking Plea For Help Amid Financial Struggles And Health BattlesThe travel agency rescheduled the trip for March 2025 but canceled it without offering any refund.
Despite promises, the company has since evaded communication, leaving them with no recourse.PensionersThe payment of R1,950 per pensioner was made either in cash or through electronic transfers, all directed to an individual who is reportedly an Indian man and former Park Rynie resident.They were offered an itinerary that included various events, such as a dance night, sports day, pool activities, and motivational talks.
Unfortunately, none of these activities were ever realized.Pensioners Seek HelpAs the situation escalated, the families of the affected pensioners reached out to Reaction Unit South Africa (Rusa) for assistance.YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Massive 28-Car Pileup In Ekurhuleni Leaves Two Seriously InjuredReaction Unit South Africa (RUSA)Rusa’s head, Prem Balram, confirmed the distressing circumstances, stating that the elderly group, initially hopeful about their trip, was now disillusioned after multiple failed attempts to contact the travel agency.
The families believe they have been scammed and are desperate to get their hard-earned money back.“The families were seeking assistance for 72 pensioners, who had paid R1,950 each for a trip that was supposed to bring joy and relaxation.“The travel agency has failed to deliver on its promises, leaving these seniors with nothing but disappointment,” Balram said.
Investigation UnderwayFollowing the families’ complaints, the pensioners’ inquiries have expanded to include checks with the resort, which confirmed that no bookings were ever made on behalf of the group.An investigation is underway to determine whether the travel agency was operating fraudulently or merely incompetent.Families of the pensioners have continued to fight for refunds, hoping that justice will prevail and that no other seniors will fall prey to such scams in the future.
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